Flights to Singapore

It’s hard to believe now, but there was a time when flights to Singapore were nothing more than a stopover on the way to some other destination. Nothing could be further from the truth today, and this impressive city has reinvented itself as a buzzing metropolis and one of the most exciting destinations in Asia.

Singapore is home to awe-inspiring architectural feats such as the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the city’s iconic centrepiece holding the highest infinity pool in the world. For all its modernity however, the city has retained plenty of natural beauty, from urban oases such as the Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, to the wildlife at Singapore Zoo. Widely regarded as one of the best zoos in the world, the animals here thrive in naturalistic enclosures rather than cages. Plus, in the midst of it all you can still find reminders of the past, such as the teahouses and ancient temples.

Then again, for a lot of travellers, visiting Singapore isn't so much about what you get to see as what you get to eat. This foodie destination has one of the most diverse and fascinating culinary scenes in the world – Malay, Indian, Chinese, European and Middle Eastern delicacies will all vie for your attention. There are restaurants and cafes in Singapore to suit all budgets, whether you're celebrating a special occasion in Michelin-starred Jaan or slurping on a bowl of cheap laksa noodles from a stall at the Maxwell Road Hawker Centre.

Once you've filled up, there are enough late night lounges and nightlife venues to keep you entertained well into the early hours. And when you do want to relax and recuperate, Singapore's hotel offering is truly impressive. Many of its accommodation options are destinations in themselves, such as the historic Raffles Singapore, where Alfred Hitchcock and Ernest Hemingway once hung out (albeit not together). As well as the large luxury chains, there are also midrange boutique hotels and backpacker hostels to accommodate those on more modest budgets.

What to do in Singapore

Visit the Gardens by the Bay

To leave behind the skyscrapers and chill out somewhere green, there's nowhere better than the Gardens by the Bay. There's lots to explore across the 101-hectare development, but look out for the Supertrees – self-sustaining tree-like structures that turn sunlight into energy.

18 Marina Gardens Drive
018953
+65 6420 6848

Visit Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple

This 19th century Chinese temple is one of the best of its kind in Singapore. It has a rich history – during the Second World War it functioned as a refuge for the sick and elderly. Today, it draws thousands of people every day, and visiting it is said to bring good luck. This is one of the most exciting places to be in the city during the Chinese New Year.

178 Waterloo Street
187964
+65 6337 3965

See wildlife at Singapore Zoo

This excellent zoo is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Singapore. From the moment you're greeted by the macaws at the entrance, it's easy to feel like a big kid as you wander from enclosure to enclosure. The elephants, orangutans, pygmy hippos and white tigers are not to be missed, and you can even take a night safari.

80 Mandai Lake Road
729826
+65 6269 3411

Where to eat in Singapore

Saveur (French)

For affordable French dining that doesn’t compromise on quality, Saveur is one of the best restaurants in Singapore. The food might be inexpensive but it’s made with the finest regional, seasonal ingredients. Get there early to avoid the queues and stay late to indulge in their excellent desserts.

5 Purvis Street #01-04
188584
+65 6333 3121

Lau Pa Sat Festival Market (Street food)

Also known as Telok Ayer Market, whilst this isn’t strictly a restaurant, it’s nevertheless a great foodie destination. The hawker stalls at this street market are a great place to sample the city’s eclectic mix of Chinese, Malay and Indian cuisine. Alternatively, there’s the Maxwell Road Hawker Centre for cheap and cheerful street food.

Telok Ayer Market
18 Raffles Quay
048582
+65 6220 2138

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon (Fusion)

Can’t decide between sushi and tapas? The award-winning L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is inspired by both. The brainchild of the legendary Joël Robuchon (who, legend has it, came out of retirement to set this restaurant up) it combines the informality of Spanish dining with the simplicity of Japanese cuisine.

Hotel Michael Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Siloso Road
+65 777 888

Places to stay in Singapore

Wanderlust Hotel

This quirky hotel on Dickson Road is a good option if you're looking for somewhere cheap to stay in Singapore. A different designer worked on each of the three floors. There's also a French restaurant as well as a plunge pool on the second floor patio.

2 Dickson Road
Little India
209494
+65 6396 3322

THE FOREST BY WANGZ

These brilliant serviced apartments have an enviable location in the heart of Singapore, but still provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. As you’d imagine from the name, it’s surrounded by greenery. When you’re not hanging out in your spacious room, chill at the infinity pool or unwind on the rooftop deck.

145A Moulmein Road
308108
+65 6500 3188

the club hotel

If you've come to Singapore to sample its famous nightlife, you need a hotel that's close enough to the action, but still comfortable enough for catching up on your sleep. That's where the club hotel comes in – it's close to the buzzy Ann Siang district, and even has its own lounge.

28 Ann Siang Road
069708
+65 6808 2188

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Most popular destinations from Singapore (SIN)

Emirates offers flights to Singapore (SIN) and 141 other destinations. Below you’ll find a selection of our flight destinations to spark your interest. Get inspired and plan and book your next flight or holiday. With Emirates you’ll experience the most comfortable flight across our cabin classes. And we continually get the best reviews for onboard service. Whether you fly Economy Class, Business Class or First Class, fly with us for a great way to travel.